Current Issue Articles

  Midland’s horses are a terrific bunch, but there’s something special about a mule. Indeed, ranch manager Ben Munger (class of ’79) and Director of Horse Programs Celeste Carlisle had for some time been discussing the possibility of a mule for Midland. And finally, one recent night, a wayward mule called Timothy arrived in style (American Horse Transportation’s air ride shipping semi with full-sized box stalls) from Enumclaw, Washington.
 Timothy was an ad on Craigslist. “Sweet mule on feedlot. Shipping to slaughter in a week. Rides and packs.” An area code led everyone to assume that the mule wasn’t too far off, and they jumped on the opportunity to secure a mule for Midland’s riding program (pack trips, here we come!). Unfortunately, it was soon discovered that Timothy was actually on a feedlot in Central Washington!
  Local wild horse sanctuary Return to Freedom organized the rescue, scheduling transportation and synchronizing efforts with other rescue organizations.

Phantom Meadow Equine, a non-profit organization in Washington, acted as the clearinghouse for fundraising efforts. Local trash hauler Allied Waste of Santa Barbara donated a substantial portion of Timothy’s  “pull fee,” and many friends and mule aficionados sent donations to cover the cost of a health exam,  blood testing (necessary for travel across state lines) and transportation .

  Timothy was hauled away from the feedlot the day before he was due to ship for slaughter. He spent two weeks with rescuer Peggy Gilmer in Enumclaw, Washington, readying for his two-day ride to Midland.  On Wednesday, November 30, he boarded a semi bound for Los Olivos.
 Timothy is settling in. He’s landed at his “forever home” now, and Midland is  proud and happy to have him.  He’s already good friends with Tango, Midland’s fearless and mischievous mustang. With the kindest eye around, and moves as graceful as a cat’s, they fully expect Timothy to become a very a popular fellow around these parts.